Somehow, my band LIPSTICK (with the ex-singer of JOKER) was given the opening cut on a local compilation album called NORTHWEST METALFEST in 1984, and were the only band to get their cut played regularly on the radio all that summer. We headlined the big NORTHWEST METALFEST show that summer at THE MOORE THEATRE with the band METAL CHURCH. We still weren't practicing that much, but were convinced by all the "fringe benefits" we were getting with all the radio play and local fame that we were ready for primetime.

Believing our own press, we moved to Hollywood in '85 to make it big. We changed our name and our look after our singer changed who he wanted to be a clone of from David Lee Roth to U2's Bono. Our new band OCTOBER (the title of U2's second album, by the way) finished our recording right at the same time QR was opening for Metallica at the Long Beach Arena in '88. Chris got us backstage and introduced us to their A&R people from EMI. Chris gave them our tape and asked her to give it a listen. We never got ANY response, but it was a nice thing for Chris to do. We broke up soon after that.

Later around '90 or '91 I saw that Rock and Roll Comics was going to write a QR comic book so I contacted the publisher since I was afraid they might print some hokey story about meeting each other for the first time in a Skipper's Fish & Chips or something. I sent in the story outline and they formed their script around it.

When Dave Goldberg and I were at the July '97 Vegas show, it was the first time I'd seen them since '88 and I was shocked to see how old all of us had become. Geoff had his new wife and kids in tow and even changed a dirty diaper while he was in his stage clothes waiting to go on. Everybody was a million times more mellow and serene. NO drinking or partying whatsoever. We talked to Eddie at length about how he had first met his girlfriend (now wife) and the entire story of their 2 year courtship.


Chris w/ Brett


Geoff w/ Brett

When we had a chance to talk with Chris, he had so many nice things to say about the Vegas Empire and when it was time to go down for the Meet'n'Greet they were all VERY happy to do it, mentioning numerous times how they wouldn't have survived through the grunge era without the loyal support of their fans and fan clubs. Their respect and love for the VEGAS EMPIRE is boundless. You guys really scored points!

Our world's are now so different, and I admit to having been envious of the good turns their lives took becoming international rock stars and all, but they had what it took and I'm proud to have known and been friends with them.

Now when I hear stories of them with their families, in their nice homes, or of Chris piloting his own plane (keeping his eye on the sky), I smile and appreciate the realization that nice guys don't always finish last.

Take hold...